Re-Wilding Initiative

The Re-Wilding Initiative is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental conservation through the promotion of native plant species and green spaces.

Mission and Activities

The organization focuses on selecting, distributing, and planting native plants, with a special emphasis on creating wildlife habitats. One of its key initiatives involves transforming urban spaces, such as rooftops, into green areas that support local biodiversity. This approach not only enhances ecological balance but also contributes to the aesthetic appeal of urban environments.

Founding and Leadership

Marcia Kirkley, the founder of the Re-Wilding Initiative, brings a diverse background to the organization. She is a certified Green Roof Professional and has developed innovative methods for passive irrigation in green roof systems. Her experience includes collaborations with the New York City Parks Department, where she tested and implemented new designs for green roofs as wildlife habitats.

Educational Background and Relevant Experience

Marcia Kirkley holds an MBA from the University of Chicago and has certificates in Botany, Horticulture, and Landscape Design from the New York Botanical Garden. Additionally, she completed a certificate program at Columbia’s Earth Institute in Conservation and Environmental Sustainability. Her career has spanned roles at IBM and the independent film industry.

Impact and Future Directions

The Re-Wilding Initiative aims to contribute to broader environmental conservation efforts by fostering habitats for native wildlife in urban areas. The organization's work aligns with broader rewilding movements globally, which seek to restore ecological processes and promote biodiversity.

History

The Re-Wilding Initiative was founded in 2016, following Marcia Kirkley’s successful collaboration with the NYC Parks Department to green rooftops as wildlife habitats. The organization installed its first green roof in October 2017 as part of its mission to enhance urban biodiversity and ecological balance.